Protests Erupt in Athens on Rail Crash Anniversary

On the second anniversary of Greece's deadliest rail crash, Athens witnessed massive protests as frustration over systemic failures boiled over. The tragic accident, which occurred on February 28, 2023, claimed the lives of 57 people when a passenger train collided with a freight train near the Tempi gorge in central Greece.

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, demanding justice for the victims and accountability from the government. The protests, which were part of a general strike, saw participation from various sectors, including air, sea, and rail transport workers. The demonstrators chanted slogans and carried banners, expressing their anger over the lack of progress in addressing the safety gaps that led to the crash.

In Athens, the protest turned violent as hooded youths hurled petrol bombs at police and attempted to storm the barricades in front of the parliament. Riot police responded with tear gas and stun grenades, leading to clashes that left several people injured.

The government's handling of the disaster has been heavily criticized, with many accusing it of covering up evidence and failing to initiate a parliamentary inquiry into political responsibility. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' administration has denied any wrongdoing, stating that it is up to the judiciary to investigate the accident.

As the nation mourns the victims, the protests reflect the deep-seated mistrust of the government and the demand for accountability and justice.